Abstract:

This report is one of a series that results from the study "Evaluation of the Effects of the Seismic Retrofitting on the Earthquake Response of Highway Bridges." Aptos Creek bridge suffered some damage during the Loma Prieta earthquake of October 17, 1989. This bridge is located approximately six miles southwest of the epicenter. The focus of the analysis for this bridge study was the nonlinear behavior of the bridge elements. Several parameters were studied in details.

Parametric studies were carried out to determine the effect of cable restrainers and intermediate hinge shear bolts on the response of the bridge. Finally, based on the analytical results in conjunction with the damage report, a general conclusion regarding the analysis capability is deduced. Detailed mathematical procedures simulating nonlinear behavior of the expansion joints are included in the study (Abstract by authors).